Hi,
Lyrica is 'pregabalin', a different chemical from Neurontin, or 'gabapentin'. They are similar in function though; they both bind -to and inhibit the same neuronal structure-- a voltage-gated calcium channel. Both medications reduce the flow of calcium into certain nerve terminals; the calcium would normally trigger the release of the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate, or Substance P, a chemical involved in pain transmission.